Haeundae Sand Festival Takes Visitors on a Time Journey Through Busan
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Haeundae Sand Festival Takes Visitors on a Time Journey Through Busan
Haeundae-gu District held the “2026 Haeundae Sand Festival” from May 15 to 18 under the theme “A Time Journey Through Busan in Sand.” Now in its 21st year, the Haeundae Sand Festival has grown into the largest sand festival in Korea since it was first launched in 2005 to commemorate the APEC Summit.
During the festival, a media façade show titled “100 Years of Haeundae” was screened every evening, using sand sculptures as projection screens. Although the festival itself has ended, the exhibition of 17 sand artworks showcasing Busan’s history, charm, and landmarks will continue until June 14.
A total of 11 sand sculptors from countries including Korea, Canada, China, France, and Taiwan participated in the exhibition. The works depict Busan’s historical milestones such as the Joseon Tongsinsa (diplomatic envoys sent to Japan during the Joseon Dynasty), its role as a temporary capital during the Korean War, and Busan Port, as well as its vibrant present featuring the Busan International Film Festival, passionate baseball cheering culture, and activities like surfing and hot springs.
They also present the city’s future vision, including plans for a new airport and an opera house, expressed through both free-standing and relief sculptures. The main sculpture departs from the traditional pyramid style and instead adopts a panoramic design that captures the full view of Haeundae, offering a fresh visual appeal.
Haeundae Sand Festival
○ Period: May 15-18, 2026
The sand sculptures will be displayed until June 14, 2026.
○ Venue: Haeundae Beach, around Haeundae Square
○ Hosted by: Haeundae-gu Office
○ For more info: 051)749-4064
○ Website: Haeundae-gu (Korean)
Source: Haeundae City News (May 2026)
